What are the concerns about breast cancer care at County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust?

Patients have reported unnecessary mastectomies, delayed diagnoses, and a lack of compassionate care.

Has the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust responded to the breast care allegations?

Yes, the new chief executive has apologized and stated the breast service has changed significantly.

Why do former patients want an inquiry into breast cancer services?

They believe patients, families, and the public deserve to know the full details of the past failings.

Home / Health / Breast Cancer Care Inquiry Demanded

Breast Cancer Care Inquiry Demanded

7 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Calls for an independent inquiry into breast cancer services.
Patients report unnecessary mastectomies and delayed diagnoses.
Trust chief apologizes for past failings in breast care.

An independent inquiry is being demanded into breast cancer services at the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, following reports of significant patient harm. The BBC has uncovered instances where patients allegedly underwent unnecessary mastectomies and experienced delayed diagnoses.

Furthermore, accounts suggest a concerning lack of compassionate care was provided. The trust's new chief executive, Steve Russell, has acknowledged these past issues, stating that the breast service has undergone substantial changes and repeating apologies to those affected.

Patients, such as former patient Kate Driver from Chester-le-Street, are now advocating for a full public inquiry to uncover the extent of the failings. Driver emphasized the public's right to know the truth about what occurred.

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